INTRODUCTION

St Patrick's College is administered by the Sisters of Mercy and is part of a 90-year tradition of education of young women in Townsville, Queensland Country and many regions of the South Pacific..

Enrolment is open to girls of every culture, background and church connection. It encourages in each student a sensitive caring for others and a respect for each individual. The boarding school provides accommodation for 150 young women.

A major rebuilding program in the last 10 years has resulted in one of the most advanced residential accommodation in Queensland, an air-conditioned library, specialist rooms and sporting facilities.

Email:               principal@stpastcollege.qld.edu.au
Website:           http://www.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au/

Principal:          Mrs Kathleen L Park

Years:               8-12, Day and Residential Girls' College

INTRODUCTION

St Patrick's College, North Ward, is part of the Australasian Association of Mercy Secondary Schools.  Founded by the Sisters of Mercy over 100 years ago, the College has a proud tradition of educating young women from Townsville, North Queensland and beyond.

St Patrick's College offers students a rigorous education enriched by Christian values and its Catholic heritage.  As an all-girls' school, it provides a wonderful environment for young women to grow with a strong sense of positive self-esteem and confidence.  The College is a multicultural community, accepting of all and learning to respect the diversity that is Australian society.

The Residential College boasts the most advanced residential accommodation in Queensland and welcomes students from many areas of Queensland and the South Pacific region. 

The College facilities include recently refurbished Art and Music Specialist Precincts, three new computer labs, serviced by an efficient network and industry-standard hospitality kitchens.  A serene and beautifully appointed prayer room invites students to take a tranquil moment from the busyness of daily life.   General learning areas are all air-conditioned and outfitted with up-to-date technology.  The Library and Resource Centre offers broad learning support.

As a Catholic College, St Patrick's strives to provide each student with a faith education, firmly based on the Gospel values of mercy, justice, compassion, respect, integrity, hope and joy.  The Religious Eduction program and the annual Retreat experience greatly adds to the holistic education offered.  A Campus Youth Minister assists by working with the students.

The College provides challenge for each student in seeking to help her grow physically, intellectually, culturally and socially.  Students take part in a rigorous sporting program and may participate in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme.  The possibility of engaging in visual and performing arts experiences is there for all students.  Debating and Public Speaking are popular areas of extra-curricula interest.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

The academic environment of the College includes specific programs for the transition to secondary education, whereby students in years eight and nine follow a comprehensive program including the main key learning areas.  Senior schooling consists of a good blend of Queensland Studies Authority subjects and Vocational Education subjects.  All students are given individual advice and counsel as they prepare for their future. 

The Pastoral Care of students is an essential aim of all staff at the College.  Pastoral co-ordinators join together with the Assistant Principal Religious Education and the student counselor to provide specialized care for each girl.  A Peer Support Group performs a vital function in modeling healthy communication skills and conflict resolution.  A Personal Development Education program caters for the student's growing maturity and social and emotional learning.

In 2008 a renewed emphasis is placed on the House Groups - affiliation to one of the four Houses (Dominations, Powers, Princes, Thrones) is one more way for the students to feel connected.  A vertical home room grouping will be based on House membership.  The aim is for excellent House and School spirit and improved relationships among all year groups.

SENIOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM

Principal                                                             Mrs Kathleen Park
Deputy Principal                                               Ms Marcia Chock Man
Assistant Principal-Administration             Mr Perry Wuth
Assistant Principal-Religious Education    Mrs Anne Henderson
Head of Boarding                                              Ms Judith Sculley